Mayor Lucy Vinis speaks to Center Point students in downtown Eugene on Thursday, August 10th.

As part of Center Point School's twice a week "Out and About" off-site trips, students were able to meet Mayor Lucy Vinis and learn about their local government.

Mayor Vinis explained the structure of the city government, how the members of the City Council, the Mayor, and the City Manager interact with each other, and what has been accomplished thus far in her tenure. Mayor Vinis focused on Eugene's initiatives to be part of the fight against climate change through such efforts as expanding bike availability and access downtown.

Students asked the Mayor questions including:

Differences between Eugene and Springfield

The Downtown smoking ban

The relationship between the Mayor and local media

How would someone get a permit to hold a festival to celebrate culture/personal interests

These outings are an important part of the education that Center Point provides by allowing students to practice the social skills they have worked on in the classroom.

"Exposing students to activities and parts of their community they haven't had a chance to see or experience is important in their growth and education," explained Center Point School Family Services Coordinator Crystal Hall. Bringing the students to meet with local officials and businesses aims to help them feel like a part of their community and helps them find their place within it.